One day in Calgary: violinist Sophie Serafino

Violinist Sophie Serafino on where to eat in her city of Calgary

If you think classical music is boring, then you haven't met Sophie Serafino. Described by fans and critics as passionate, fearless and intriguing, violinist, singer and composer Sophie Serafino is known throughout Europe and Australia as the queen of pop violin. Sophie has performed all over the world in over 400 solo performances, and she has played for dignitaries including the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed at the Emirates Palace in Sao Paolo, the Bahraini Royal Family, as well as Mary and Frederik, Crown Princess and Prince of Denmark.

Who says it's rock stars who get to have all of the fun? Serafino has performed alongside Goldfrapp, Josh Groban, and Olivia Newton-John, to name a few. Recently in Toronto, Canada, Sophie took the stage with Chantal Kreviazuk, Dan Hill and The Canadian Tenors. She was also ‘White Hatted’ by Calgary Stampede at the Jack Singer Concert Hall in Calgary.

Sophie has just completed two albums (due out in 2014) with Grammy and Juno Award winners that include producer Rob Wells, Dan Hill, Amy Sky and Pavlo. The Edmonton Journal describes Sophie as "a tour de force. Passionate and electrifying", the Calgary Herald calls Sophie a "show-stopper" and the Daily Telegraph says the violinist has "inimitable style".

When she’s not performing, writing or recording, Sophie is kept busy as the ambassador for Ovarian Cancer Canada, and the founder of Every Woman Foundation.

Breakfast

A Ladybug Bakery and Cafe: It's my absolute favourite for breakfast! I can’t get enough of its chocolate crepes, delicious creamy chai lattes and the light breezy vibe. The eggs Benedict is a favourite too. Unusual presentation; absolutely delicious.

Lunch

Borgo Trattoria: I love the rustic décor, great food and large personalities of the staff [here]. It's quite traditional Italian in many ways, but it also has modern elements. The staff will give me almond milk in my coffee, which a lot of Italian places will not do. Love, love, love it!

Dinner

Mercato: I absolutely love Mercato. With a perfectly-prepared and presented mix of traditional and modern Italian, I’d head to Mercato for almost any occasion. I love that it’s a family business and that it has a market as well. I can get Italian things for my kitchen that I can’t get anywhere else.

Drinks

Vin Room: Nothing compares to drinking dessert wine upstairs at Vin Room, late on a romantic evening. I love the warm dark cozy atmosphere, especially in the depths of winter!